model 1 of 3

Definition of modelnext

model

2 of 3

adjective

model

3 of 3

verb

Synonym Chooser

How does the noun model differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of model are example, exemplar, ideal, and pattern. While all these words mean "someone or something set before one for guidance or imitation," model applies to something taken or proposed as worthy of imitation.

a decor that is a model of good taste

When could example be used to replace model?

The meanings of example and model largely overlap; however, example applies to a person to be imitated or in some contexts on no account to be imitated but to be regarded as a warning.

children tend to follow the example of their parents

Where would exemplar be a reasonable alternative to model?

The synonyms exemplar and model are sometimes interchangeable, but exemplar suggests either a faultless example to be emulated or a perfect typification.

cited Joan of Arc as the exemplar of courage

When might ideal be a better fit than model?

The words ideal and model are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, ideal implies the best possible exemplification either in reality or in conception.

never found a job that matched his ideal

In what contexts can pattern take the place of model?

Although the words pattern and model have much in common, pattern suggests a clear and detailed archetype or prototype.

American industry set a pattern for others to follow

How does the noun model differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of model are example, exemplar, ideal, and pattern. While all these words mean "someone or something set before one for guidance or imitation," model applies to something taken or proposed as worthy of imitation.

a decor that is a model of good taste

When could example be used to replace model?

The meanings of example and model largely overlap; however, example applies to a person to be imitated or in some contexts on no account to be imitated but to be regarded as a warning.

children tend to follow the example of their parents

Where would exemplar be a reasonable alternative to model?

The synonyms exemplar and model are sometimes interchangeable, but exemplar suggests either a faultless example to be emulated or a perfect typification.

cited Joan of Arc as the exemplar of courage

When might ideal be a better fit than model?

The words ideal and model are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, ideal implies the best possible exemplification either in reality or in conception.

never found a job that matched his ideal

In what contexts can pattern take the place of model?

Although the words pattern and model have much in common, pattern suggests a clear and detailed archetype or prototype.

American industry set a pattern for others to follow

How does the noun model differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of model are example, exemplar, ideal, and pattern. While all these words mean "someone or something set before one for guidance or imitation," model applies to something taken or proposed as worthy of imitation.

a decor that is a model of good taste

When could example be used to replace model?

The meanings of example and model largely overlap; however, example applies to a person to be imitated or in some contexts on no account to be imitated but to be regarded as a warning.

children tend to follow the example of their parents

Where would exemplar be a reasonable alternative to model?

The synonyms exemplar and model are sometimes interchangeable, but exemplar suggests either a faultless example to be emulated or a perfect typification.

cited Joan of Arc as the exemplar of courage

When might ideal be a better fit than model?

The words ideal and model are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, ideal implies the best possible exemplification either in reality or in conception.

never found a job that matched his ideal

In what contexts can pattern take the place of model?

Although the words pattern and model have much in common, pattern suggests a clear and detailed archetype or prototype.

American industry set a pattern for others to follow

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of model
Noun
For those who want a slightly softer feel, the brand’s Mint model adds an extra layer of foam, while its hybrid option introduces coils for more bounce. Bailey Berg, Architectural Digest, 10 Mar. 2026 The tentative deal will force Live Nation and Ticketmaster to make several changes to their business model, which could open up avenues for more competition in the live-entertainment space. Jon Blistein, Rolling Stone, 10 Mar. 2026
Adjective
In his Ocean Avenue apartment, Batchelor has a practice space and room for dozens of trumpets and his model-train set. Daniel Yadin, Curbed, 11 Feb. 2026 In the United States, model-publication licensing also likely collides with speech law. IEEE Spectrum, 2 Feb. 2026
Verb
Researchers tested the chatbots in simulated international crises; all demonstrated self-awareness, an ability to model opponents’ thinking, and grasp of game theory. Tom Chivers, semafor.com, 4 Mar. 2026 Save the Children says caregivers can model responsible digital behavior, encourage kids not to spread harmful or graphic information and remind them to think twice before sharing content that is possibly inaccurate or emotionally triggering. ABC News, 4 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for model
Recent Examples of Synonyms for model
Noun
  • Their high reproduction rate and adaptability to multiple environments mean the range is likely to keep expanding unless removal efforts can outpace the spread.
    Ryan Brennan, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 13 Mar. 2026
  • Combined with their high reproduction rate, containment is a formidable challenge for state wildlife managers.
    Ryan Brennan, Kansas City Star, 13 Mar. 2026
Noun
  • Anything that, say, the cultish brand Supreme stamped its blocky logo on—a brick, a voodoo doll, a functional fire extinguisher—and issued as a drop became an overnight fetish object.
    Ellen Cushing, The Atlantic, 10 Mar. 2026
  • Smith carried a mini top-handle style shaped like a doll house.
    Hannah Malach, InStyle, 10 Mar. 2026
Noun
  • If a chat turns noisy, start by naming your priority, then direct the proceedings confidently while leaving room for others’ ideas.
    Tarot.com, New York Daily News, 14 Mar. 2026
  • An idea could be forming despite unbelievers.
    Magi Helena, Dallas Morning News, 14 Mar. 2026
Adjective
  • This dreamy dessert recipe blends together the cream cheese flavor of a cheesecake with the airy creaminess of the classic Italian cake.
    Kimberly Holland, Southern Living, 10 Mar. 2026
  • This is the classic risotto recipe every home cook should know.
    Carla Lalli Music, Bon Appetit Magazine, 10 Mar. 2026
Verb
  • In my two-level penthouse suite, for example, quietly floral wallpaper, gray-velvet sofas and armchairs, and patterned cream tiles with gold accents in the bathrooms made for a sophisticated, yet welcoming space.
    Megan Spurrell, Condé Nast Traveler, 2 Jan. 2026
  • The institutions studied by political scientists do not exist outside ideology but are simply patterned instances of ideology—and if ideology changes drastically enough, the institutions change with it.
    Jason Blakely, Harpers Magazine, 30 Dec. 2025
Noun
  • For example, one recent night, the room between Cardboard Corner Café and TableTop was set up for Warhammer, where enthusiasts collect, build, and paint miniatures, and fight strategic tabletop battles.
    Debra Skodack, Kansas City Star, 10 Mar. 2026
  • These miniature, self-sustaining ecosystems were on full display at the 2026 Flower Show.
    Madeline Buiano, Martha Stewart, 9 Mar. 2026
Noun
  • Stella crossed the street and loitered outside the store window displaying haughty mannequins flaunting swagger coats.
    Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 13 Mar. 2026
  • The young players were set three ‘skills’ tasks; the first was a dribbling one, between mannequins, the second a short passing drill involving small goals and the third was ball juggling, or ‘keepy-uppies’ — as they’re colloquially referred to.
    Chris McKenna, New York Times, 8 Mar. 2026
Noun
  • For example, individual filers can receive up to $994, couples filing jointly can receive $1,491, and those providing essential care to SSI recipients can receive up to $498.
    Asher Notheis, The Washington Examiner, 11 Mar. 2026
  • And having the Israelis and Americans at war with Iran is a textbook example of instability in the Middle East.
    Arkansas Online, Arkansas Online, 11 Mar. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Model.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/model. Accessed 15 Mar. 2026.

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